Bafana Bafana stopper Itumeleng Khune says only three points will do from their tie against Sierra Leone on Sunday evening.
Pitso Mosimane's charges make the daunting trip to Freetown in pole position in Group G following their victory over Niger and Egypt's failure to beat the Lone Stars in the opening round of AFCON qualifiers.
However, with only the team that finishes top of the group guaranteed a place in the 2012 African Nations Cup, the Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper knows that a win is crucial.
"Even a draw is not good enough as we are going there for three points," he said at a press conference on Tuesday.
"Add the fact we have had a good World Cup and that the bulk of the squad have been together for the last nine months, should ensure a successful trip to Freetown."
The 23-year-old was part of the South African squad that went down 1-0 to the Leone Stars in an AFCON qualifier back in 2008.
But he has warned Sierra Leone that Bafana will be a different prospect this time around.
"We have learnt from our previous trip and are better prepared both physically and mentally this time.
"We missed a lot of chances when we lost 1-0 through a penalty," added striker Surprise Moriri who also played in that team under Brazilian coach Joel Santana.
"We also know it will be raining there so we are prepared for that. This time we have to make sure we make the chances we create count.
"If we do not concede a goal we will be halfway there collecting three points and staying on top of our qualifying group."